Introduction

As digital technology continues to reshape communication, education, and social interaction, it has also created new forms of harm—particularly for women and girls. Online harassment, unauthorized sharing of personal content, cyberbullying, digital stalking, and other forms of abuse are now common threats that undermine safety, dignity, and well-being.

In recognition of these emerging challenges, the Muslim Congress of Liberia joined global efforts to mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, hosting a one-day workshop focused on combating digital violence against women and girls. The event brought together community leaders, activists, Imams, Islamic scholars, Muslim women’s groups, NGOs, international partners, foreign missions, and government representatives to collectively explore solutions and strengthen advocacy.

The event aimed to deepen understanding of digital violence, harmonize Islamic perspectives with national policies, and support Liberia’s advancement toward gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Background

The past century has witnessed a rapid digital revolution, offering significant opportunities but also exposing individuals to new risks. Digital spaces—social media, messaging platforms, online forums—have become breeding grounds for privacy violations, harassment, and other harmful acts. These challenges present a serious threat to women and girls globally and in Liberia.

As a faith-based organization committed to justice and human dignity, the Muslim Congress of Liberia organized this workshop to align Islamic teachings with national and global efforts—especially Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5), which aims to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.

The gathering served as a platform for dialogue, education, and collaboration among stakeholders dedicated to protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls in digital spaces.

Overall Goal

The overall goal of the workshop was to contribute toward ending digital violence against women and girls, especially those from vulnerable and minority groups in Liberia. Through faith-based guidance, inclusive dialogue, and strategic partnerships, the Muslim Congress seeks to promote safer digital spaces for all.

Specific Objectives

✓ Identify and Educate on the Forms and Impacts of Digital Violence

Participants examined the various forms of online violence—cyberstalking, blackmail, false accusations, image-based abuse, and more—while exploring their psychological, emotional, and social impacts on women and girls.

✓ Develop Culturally and Religiously Responsive Mechanisms

The workshop emphasized creating response solutions grounded in Islamic principles of dignity, justice, and protection, while ensuring they remain culturally and socially adaptable for vulnerable communities.

✓ Promote Inclusion and Collaboration

Discussions highlighted the need for collective action involving faith leaders, community stakeholders, families, and government institutions to prevent and respond to digital abuse.

✓ Strengthen Synergies to Support SDG 5

Participants explored opportunities for coordinated action with government agencies, civil society, and international partners to support Liberia’s advancement toward gender equality indicators under SDG 5.

Workshop Highlights

The workshop featured a rich and engaging lineup of presentations, panel discussions, and interactive conversations. Key highlights included:

• Expert presentations on the nature and rise of digital violence in Liberia.

• Panel discussions connecting Islamic teachings with human rights frameworks on women’s protection.

• Group dialogues on practical ways communities can safeguard women and girls online.

• Experience sharing by young Muslim women, activists, and community leaders.

• Policy reflections from government representatives on national strategies for reducing violence against women.

The engagement emphasized that ending digital violence requires both technical awareness and moral responsibility, especially within faith communities.

Faith-Based Perspective

Islamic teachings strongly uphold the principles of dignity (karama), justice (adl), compassion (rahma), and protection of the vulnerable. Scholars and Imams at the workshop highlighted that:

• Islam prohibits all forms of harm, including verbal, emotional, and digital abuse.

• The preservation of privacy and honor is a moral obligation.

• Community leaders have a responsibility to denounce digital violence and promote ethical behavior online.

This faith-based lens strengthened the call for action, demonstrating that protecting women and girls from digital harm is not only a legal and human rights requirement—but also a religious duty.

Recommendations and Way Forward

At the close of the workshop, participants proposed several key recommendations:

1. Strengthen awareness on digital safety among youth, women, and community members.

2. Develop faith-aligned reporting and response mechanisms for cases of digital abuse.

3. Enhance collaboration between religious institutions, schools, NGOs, and government agencies.

4. Integrate digital safety education into community programs and mosque activities.

5. Promote national campaigns advocating for respectful and responsible online behavior.

These steps aim to ensure that the fight against digital violence continues beyond the 16 Days of Activism and becomes a sustained national effort.

Conclusion

The Muslim Congress of Liberia’s commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to protecting and empowering women and girls. By merging faith-based values with national and global frameworks, the workshop served as a powerful reminder that digital spaces must be safe, respectful, and inclusive for all.

The Congress remains committed to working with partners, communities, and national institutions to ensure that every woman and girl in Liberia can live, learn, and thrive—free from all forms of digital violence.